Comments on coast plan sought

More than 420 submissions on Kapiti Coast District Council’s coastal erosion rules are open for community consideration.

People have four weeks to check the submissions on the draft District Plan and decide if they want to comment on them.

Councillor Peter Ellis said checking the submissions is important as they could have an effect on others in the district.

‘‘ If someone has requested changes that affect what you can do on your property or a neighbouring property, and you are concerned about it, this is your opportunity to object.’’

In August the council sparked controversy when it went public with the Shand report, which found 1000 beachfront properties were at risk from erosion within 50 years and another 800 within a century.

The information was included in LIMs the same day it was announced to media.

Now the council’s draft plan includes coastal no-build zones, and relocatable home-only areas based on the report.

Following community pressure, in January the council extended the deadline for submissions on the coastal section of the plan.

A summary of decisions requested by submitters, and copies of full submissions, are available at council libraries and service centres. They can also be provided on CD, call 296 4700 or 0800 486 486, or email districtplanreview@ kapiticoast.govt.nz.

Comment is limited to supporting or opposing decisions requested in the summary. New matters cannot be introduced.

An independent Friend of Submitter, Dave Armour is available, call 236 8609 or 021 503 187, or email rarmour@xtra.co.nz.